Chapter 132
~132
Elara’s POV
As the makeup artist moved to the finer details, eyeliner, subtle shimmer on my eyelids, and a soft pink for my lips, Darlon signaled to someone outside. Moments later, one of the staff members arrived, carrying a small collection of my designer bags and shoes, each carefully matched to complement the gown.
I raised an eyebrow at the sight. “Darlon… all this p>
He smiled softly, holding my hand. “Of course, my love. Every detail matters today. You need to feel confident, comfortable, and stunning. These are just the finishing touches p>
I felt a rush of gratitude and a little disbelief. “I… I didn’t even think about this. I just p>
“Shh,” Darlon said, brushing a strand of hair behind my ear. “You don’t have to think about anything. Everything is ready. All you need to do is get dressed, let me help, and then walk onto that stage. That’s all p>
I let out a shaky breath, feeling some of the tension in my shoulders ease as Darlon guided me to try on the matching shoes. Each step felt careful, but surprisingly comfortable. He adjusted the hem of the gown, smoothing the fabric over my hips and around my belly.
“You look perfect,” he whispered again, his hands lingering just slightly, making sure everything was just right. “Absolutely perfect p>
I smiled at him, feeling my nerves settle slightly. “I just… I feel like I should eat something,” I said hesitantly.
I glanced at him as he leaned closer, brushing a soft kiss against my temple. “You should eat, my love,” he murmured, his hand resting over mine.
I nodded reluctantly. The maids had already brought a tray, warm bread, soft and fresh, and a cup of steaming tea. The smell made my stomach tighten, but I tried to take a bite. “I… I’ll eat a little,” I murmured, taking a small piece and sipping the tea.
He smiled, brushing a strand of hair from my face. “Good. I need to get ready, too,” he said. I watched him as he left the room for a few moments, and when he returned, my breath caught.
He wore a tailored suit that fit him perfectly, dark and sharp, the kind that made him look untouchable, yet somehow soft in my eyes. His shoulders were broad, the jacket cut emphasizing his form, and his hair was perfect, as always.
“You… you look I started, and then laughed softly, shaking my head. “I hope nobody takes you away from me today p>
Darlon’s lips curved into a slow smile, and he took my hand in his. “Nobody will, my love. Don’t even worry about that. Today is about you. And us. Everyone else can wait p>
I couldn’t help but smile back, a warmth spreading through me. Then he leaned in, eyes sparkling. “And for your entrance… we’re taking the Cybertruck. I want everyone to see you arriving in style p>
I laughed softly, covering my mouth. “Of course… only you would do that. But yes, I love it p>
Darlon squeezed my hand. “Then it’s settled. Let’s go, my love p>
Fridolf drove us to the venue, the morning sun catching the metallic shine of the Cybertruck, and reporters had already gathered outside. Cameras clicked, and flashes lit the air as we approached. I could feel my heart beating faster, but Darlon’s hand over mine kept me grounded.
When we arrived, he stepped out first, opening the door for me with that familiar flourish. The reporters leaned forward, taking pictures as the staff bowed respectfully. “Luna Elara,” someone called, “how does it feel to be holding your first grand fashion show today p>
I straightened, took a deep breath, and smiled. “It’s… overwhelming, in the best way. I’m honored to have everyone here, and I hope today inspires creativity and passion in everyone watching p>
Darlon rested a hand lightly on my back as we stepped closer. “It’s okay, everyone,” he said calmly, his voice carrying across the commotion. “You all know my wife is pregnant, so please don’t stress her too much today. She’s worked hard, and now she deserves to enjoy this moment p>
I glanced at him, grateful, my heart swelling. “Thank you,” I whispered.
He squeezed my hand again and guided me inside. The hall… I froze for a moment, taking it all in. The space was vast, opulent, and shimmering with light. Rows of chairs lined the runway, and golden spotlights reflected off the polished floors. The models stood at the back, waiting in their outfits, perfectly styled hair and makeup, each detail immaculate.
Everywhere I looked, I saw the results of months of planning and effort, my team, my staff, all working together to create this. The air smelled faintly of fresh flowers and polished wood, and I could hear the soft hum of anticipation as people whispered, adjusting seats and checking programs.
Darlon leaned close, his lips brushing my ear. “You did this, my love. Every detail is yours. Look at it… all of this is because of you p>
I felt a swell of pride, mixed with nervousness. “It’s… it’s beautiful,” I breathed, my hands clutching his slightly as my eyes swept the hall. “I can’t believe it’s finally happening p>
I watched the staff move with such precision and purpose that it almost mesmerized me. Each person seemed to know exactly what they were doing, and yet no one rushed; no one seemed flustered. Some were adjusting the lights, carefully angling them so that the runway would shine just right, the colors of the fabrics catching every beam perfectly. Others were arranging accessories on small tables, making sure that every necklace, every bracelet, every pair of shoes was placed exactly where it needed to be. The models hovered quietly near the back, checking their outfits, smoothing their hair, and practicing small movements in place.
I felt a strange calm settle over me, even though my heart was still hammering with nerves. Standing there, I realized that I wasn’t just seeing a hall filled with lights and clothes; I was seeing months of hard work, months of late nights, the dedication of people who believed in me and in what I had started. And somehow, it made me feel… proud.
Then my eyes found Janae. She was standing a little off to the side, clipboard in hand, but her attention kept drifting to me. She caught my gaze and gave me a small thumbs-up, her face lighting up with pride, and I felt a little smile tug at my lips despite myself. Something was reassuring in the way she looked at me, like she could see both the nervousness and the excitement battling inside me, and she was silently telling me that I was ready, that everything was ready.
I noticed David nearby too, quietly checking his tablet, making sure every last detail about the models and the order of the show was perfect. The way they all worked together, so smoothly, made the whole room feel like it was alive, buzzing with anticipation and energy. I took a deep breath, letting it fill my lungs, trying to absorb the feeling.